Acadia Teacher Fellow Handbook

Rev. 1/15

CONTENTS National Park Service Legacy 3-4 Introduction / Organization / Volunteers

Before You Leave Home 5 Administrative Matters / Your Appointment/ Uniforms / Background Check / Mandatory Driver’s License / Division Park Phone Numbers

Getting To The Park and When You Arrive 6 By Car / By Bus / By Plane / Reporting In / Park Decal

On the Job 7-8 Orientation Training / Additional Training / Computer Use and Email Access / Working Hours / Pay / Check-Out Procedures / Safety / On-the-Job Injuries / Environmental Management

Government Housing 9 Furnishings / Policies

Your Rights and Responsibilities 10 Equal Employment Opportunity Program / Employee Conduct

The Area 10-14 MDI / Towns / Schoodic / Isle au Haut / Getting Around / Weather / Insects / Community Services / Shopping / Dining / Entertainment / Recycling / Laundry Facilities / Newspapers / Libraries / Post Offices / Medical Services / Worship Services

Recreation 15-16 Fitness Room / Beaches / Hiking / Biking / Camping / Fishing / Ranger Programs Other Summer Activities /

Appendix A - Map of Park Headquarters Appendix B - Map of Mount Desert Island

The National Park System: Caring for the American Legacy

“…to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for their enjoyment in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” - National Park Service Organic Act, 16 U.S.C.1.

“The National Park Service at Acadia National Park protects and preserves outstanding scenic, natural, scientific, and cultural values for present and future generations. These resources include a glaciated coastal and island landscape, biological diversity, clean air and water, and a rich cultural heritage. Acadia National Park also offers opportunities for high-quality non-consumptive recreation, education, and scientific research.” - Acadia National Park Strategic Management Plan

Introduction Welcome to Acadia National Park! Acadia was originally established in 1916 as Sieur de Monts National Monument. In 1919 it was designated as Lafayette National Park, and in 1929 it was given the name we know today.

Acadia National Park is located in what is known as the “Downeast” region of Maine. The park protects over 47,000 acres where the highest mountains on the eastern seaboard of the United States touch the rocky coast of the Atlantic Ocean. While most of the park is located on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park also encompasses smaller islands scattered along the coast, including a portion of Isle au Haut to the southwest. The Schoodic Peninsula, one hour’s drive to the east from park headquarters, is the only mainland area of the park. The park receives more than two million visitors annually.

The park’s official website is www.nps.gov/acad. It is a great reference for general information, as well as information on upcoming events in the park.

The Organization The National Park Service (NPS), under the supervision of the NPS Director, maintains its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The NPS Director is appointed by the Secretary of the Interior who, in turn, reports to the President and is a member of the President’s cabinet. Nationwide there are about 9,000 permanent, year- round NPS employees. Total employment during the summer season is more than 20,000 people.

The NPS has seven regional offices, each headed by a regional director. Acadia is in the Northeast Region, and our regional office is located in Philadelphia.

The Superintendent of Acadia National Park reports to the regional director of the Northeast Region and is the top park official. The Superintendent is responsible for managing and supervising all park operations and activities, and is also responsible for the overall administration of St. Croix Island International Historic Site in Calais, Maine. In the Superintendent's absence, the deputy superintendent handles these duties.

The headquarters of Acadia National Park is located on McFarland Hill, three miles west of Bar Harbor on State Route 233 (see Appendix A for a map of park headquarters). The staff of Acadia consists of approximately 100 permanent employees and, during the summer, about 150 seasonal employees. Park staff is organized by function and includes the divisions of Administration, Interpretation, Maintenance, Resource Management, and Visitor & Resource Protection. A division chief heads each division. The Superintendent’s office includes the Deputy Superintendent and Park Planner.

The division of Administration acts as the "business office" for the park. Its principal functions include human resources, budget, purchasing, property management, housing, payroll, concessions management, the 3 volunteer program, and IT support (computers, telephone, video-conferencing).

The division of Interpretation is responsible for information/education programming and other services provided to park visitors and neighbors. The division manages park publications, interpretive exhibits, the Nature Center at Sieur de Monts Spring, Islesford Museum, Hulls Cove Visitor Center, and the Winter Visitor Center. Interpretive rangers provide a variety of programs (campfire talks, guided walks and hikes, and other activities) to the public. An extensive curriculum-based education program reaches many students in local schools in the spring and fall.

Maintenance is the largest division in the park. It maintains all roads, trails, buildings, utilities, grounds, vehicles, and other physical facilities in the park to ensure they are safe and in good condition. The division also manages facility construction and rehabilitation projects to support Acadia's operation.

The division of Resource Management provides scientific guidance to park management on all matters related to natural and cultural resources. The division is responsible for conducting or overseeing studies on physical, biological, and cultural resources to support critical resource management actions. Staff members often work with private landowners to ensure the protection of scenic, ecological, and cultural values on nearly 190 conservation easements (more than 12,000 acres) held by the NPS. The division also maintains an extensive museum collection, caring for over one million historic and archeological objects, archival photos and documents, and natural history specimens.

The division of Visitor and Resource Protection is responsible for all emergency services: all-risk incident management, law enforcement, emergency medical services, search and rescue, and wildland fire management. The division also manages the dispatch, lifeguard, and fee collection operations and provides physical security for park facilities, buildings, and park-owned housing. Rangers provide extensive visitor contact and ranger presence in both the front country and backcountry areas of Acadia within its boundaries on Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut, Schoodic Peninsula, 78 outer islands, and Saint Croix Island IHS. The fire management branch is responsible for wildland fire management within Acadia and nine other national park sites in the northern New England cluster of parks. The fee program, comprising about half of the division, manages the collection, deposits, and tracking of visitor use fees that are used to support park resource stewardship, education, and visitor use management.

Volunteers Volunteers are a crucial part of Acadia National Park's operation and each year provide in excess of 50,000 hours of service to the park. During the summer season, volunteers take on various tasks such as hosting at the campgrounds, working at information centers, and maintaining trails. Some volunteers come as part of groups affiliated with schools or organizations; other volunteers are retirees or local residents. Many opportunities exist for employees to volunteer a few hours as well, both in summer and winter. Contact the park’s Volunteer Coordinator Dianna McKeage at (207) 288-8716 for details.

Before You Leave Home

Administrative Matters Once you have accepted an offer to work at the park, you will receive some forms from a Human Resource Specialist requiring your signature. Your position requires a security clearance and you will receive paperwork that includes fingerprint forms and others needed to complete your background check. Please adhere to all deadlines. You cannot begin work until all paperwork completed and cleared.

Your Appointment Contact your supervisor with your planned arrival time at the park as you near your start date. This will allow your supervisor to confirm your housing assignment, if applicable. Also, special arrangements can then be made for your housing key if you will arrive after business hours or on the weekend.

If you have been assigned government quarters in the park, contact your supervisor for the address you should use for your personal mail. It is against park policy to use the park’s mailing address for personal mail.

Uniforms The teacher’s uniform consists of a polo shirt and a ball cap or bucket hat with Acadia Teacher Fellow patches. You are asked to wear the uniform whenever you are on duty and visible to park visitors to bring awareness to the Fellowship program. You will need to provide long pants (no particular color; no blue jeans please), belt, raincoat, windbreaker or fleece, hiking boots or shoes. Because any season at Acadia can be cold, windy, and wet, you will need clothing that will protect you from the elements and allow you to dress in layers. The park may have a daypack you may borrow for the season.

Background Check/Investigation A background investigation is necessary to ensure that the employee meets all suitability requirements for federal employment. All teachers are required to submit to a fingerprint check even if their fingerprints are on file with the school district.

It is the responsibility of the NPS to initiate the investigation process of potential employees. The background investigation is a thorough process and requires an extensive history of past employers, education, and places of residence. Preparing and returning this information immediately is essential, as employees cannot begin work until their background investigations are initiated by the park and the initial steps of their investigations are cleared by the regional office.

Mandatory Driver’s License Certification You may be operating a government motor vehicle as part of your summer duties. Upon entrance on duty, you will be required to sign an affidavit certifying that you possess a valid state-issued driver’s license that is current and has not been revoked, suspended, or canceled. You will be required to submit a photocopy of your valid state-issued driver’s license.

Park Contact Numbers If you have any questions or need general information, you may contact your supervisor or other park personnel at the following numbers:

Administration (Human Resources) (207) 288-8745 Interpretation (Admin/Budget Tech) (207) 288-8805 Maintenance (Program Assistant) (207) 288-8751 Resource Management (Chief) (207) 288-8720 Resource and Visitor Protection (Program Assistant) (207) 288-8771 Park Dispatch (207) 288-8791

Getting To the Park

Acadia National Park is located about 45 miles (roughly an hour’s drive) southeast of Bangor, Maine. From Boston it is approximately 270 miles or 5 hours, and from New York City it is about 500 miles or 10 hours. A mileage chart and maps of the park and area are available at www.nps.gov/acad.

By Car If you are traveling by car, take I-95 to Bangor; take Exit 182A onto I-395. From I-395, take Exit 6A onto Route 1A south to Ellsworth. From Ellsworth, follow Route 3 east to Bar Harbor. If you are coming from the south, expect several toll stations along the Maine Turnpike (I-95) in southern Maine. It is about four hours from the Maine/New Hampshire border to park headquarters if you drive straight through and follow posted speed limits.

By Bus Concord Coach (800-639-3317, www.concordcoachlines.com) offers bus service between Bangor, Portland, and Boston with direct travel to/from Boston’s Logan International Airport and South Station (train). The Bar Harbor Shuttle (207-479-5911, www.barharborshuttle.com) operates year-round between Bar Harbor and Bangor. Contact the bus companies for current schedules and fares.

By Plane If you wish to arrive by air, the following options are available:  Bangor International Airport (BGR) is about 75 minutes from Bar Harbor.  Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) in Trenton, just off Mount Desert Island, is about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor. From June 23 to Columbus Day in October, the airport in Trenton is served by the free Island Explorer bus system.  Portland International Jetport (PWM) is about three and a half hours from the park. Fares are sometimes less expensive than those for Bangor, but you must consider associated costs such as additional lodging, taxi, or bus service.  Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston is a five hour drive from the park.

Please see By Bus above for information on how to get to the park if you fly to Bangor, Portland, or Boston.

When You Arrive

Reporting In Check in with your supervisor. If you will arrive after 4:30 or on the weekend, and you have been assigned park housing, please talk with your supervisor ahead of your arrival. Arrangements can be made to have your housing key available for pick-up at park dispatch.

On your first day you will check in with Administration at park headquarters to complete your in-processing paperwork and return your signed keys’ receipt. You must see the following Administration staff :

Human Resources Assistant: Leslie Belskis (207) 288-8745 Property/Housing Officer: Dan Rich (207) 288-8715

Park Decal As a Teacher Fellow, you may obtain a decal for your vehicle which will allow you free access through the park’s entrance station at Sand Beach. Decals should be placed inside your windshield on the driver’s side.

On the Job

Park Orientation Training A good way to supplement to get oriented to the area and gain an overall appreciation of the park is to attend some ranger-led programs and ride on the Island Explorer bus, a free shuttle that operates during the summer months (see Getting Around). Some bus stops are at trailheads, so bring a daypack and a lunch and make a day of it. Bus schedules, as well as park maps, are available at park headquarters, Hulls Cove Visitor Center, and the Bar Harbor Village Green.

Additional Training A variety of additional training is offered by park staff to provide skill improvement while at the same time diversifying your park experience. This may include search and rescue (SAR) training opportunities, training sessions by medical professionals, law enforcement officers, staff members of the Interpretation and Resource Management Divisions, and the park’s safety officer. Some divisions post notices of training sessions open to all employees, generally through all-employee emails. If you have a particular area of interest let your supervisor know.

Computer Use and Email Access If use of a government computer is essential to your job, your supervisor will complete the necessary forms authorizing you to use government computers. After your arrival, your supervisor will provide you with a user name and password to access the NPS network. If you have been authorized to have a government email account, you will also receive your user name and password for this account.

All employees and volunteers must read and abide by the NPS computer use policy, as contained in the Responsibilities for Computer Use (v. 2003-3). Your supervisor will give you a copy of the Responsibilities for Computer Use booklet and the computer access request form to sign. The Responsibilities for Computer Use document discusses activities that are permitted and prohibited when using a NPS computer. Read this policy carefully, as it contains valuable information that can keep you out of trouble later.

Anyone using government computers must complete the online IT Security Awareness Training within 14 days of receiving a user ID. Failure to complete the training will result in access being revoked. Upon completion of the training, a copy of the training certificate must be provided to the IT specialist along with a copy to your supervisor.

If you have any problems with your government email or computer, please submit a help ticket to the park’s IT Specialist using the park share point site: http://share.inside.nps.gov/sites/NE/acad/default.aspx. Click on IT Help Desk Ticket and follow the prompts.

Working Hours The normal work week is 40 hours per week (8 hours a day, 5 days a week). Alternate work schedules may be necessary to accommodate for special training opportunities such as teacher institutes. These could involve weekends, nights and/or holidays and, rarely, split shifts. Arrangements will always be made ahead of time with your supervisor and mutually agreed upon. You will not be required to work more than 40 hours per week.

Check Out Procedures On your last day of work you are responsible for returning all government issued equipment including all keys. Make sure that your correct forwarding address is on your Check-Out Form.

If you occupied government housing, you are responsible for cleaning your quarters before you check out. Your supervisor must inspect your quarters and complete the Housing Inspection Form that is submitted with your Check-Out Form. Submit a change of address notice with the Post Office if you received personal mail at your government quarters. 7

Safety The NPS is committed to the safety of its employees and visitors. Acadia has an active Safety Committee with a representative in each division. Throughout the season, the Safety Committee provides safety training ranging from defensive driving tactics to hazardous materials. If you locate a safety hazard, it is your responsibility to report it to your supervisor. Working safely in all aspects of our jobs is not an option—it's a responsibility. If you have concerns or questions, please do not hesitate to contact your division representative or your supervisor.

All employees operating government motor vehicles must have a valid state (or territory) driver’s license which must be documented at the time you enter on duty. All employees are required to wear safety belts.

On-the-Job Injuries It is your responsibility to immediately notify your supervisor of any on-the-job injury, no matter how minor, to ensure that the injury is documented and medical treatment is obtained if needed. You will be required to fill out the necessary forms, including recording your injury in the Safety Management Information System website (www.smis.doi.gov). When outside medical treatment is necessary, there are particular forms you must take with you to the doctor. Your supervisor will provide those forms and can assist you in completing them. All forms should be returned to the Human Resources Specialist as soon as possible. If you need help with the SMIS website, contact the Safety Officer (207) 288-8752 or the Human Resources Specialist (207) 288-8714.

Any injuries or sickness incurred off the job must be treated at your own expense.

Environmental Management As an employee, you have a responsibility to play an active role in Acadia's Environmental Management Program. The park has implemented an Environmental Management System (EMS) to help meet its mission of protecting natural and cultural resources. An EMS emphasizes effectiveness, efficiency, and continuous improvement—as opposed to reactive, crisis-based environmental management—through internal goal setting and planning as a means to achieve lasting environmental benefits. The park’s commitment to follow environmentally sound procedures has been put into writing as the Environmental Management Plan. The plan includes an environmental commitment statement signed by the Superintendent and sets specific goals and objectives for improving the park’s environmental interactions, as well as a phased action plan for meeting these goals. This plan is all encompassing and requires the participation of every employee, volunteer, and contractor.

Acadia National Park is committed to reducing, reusing, and recycling. While at work, do your part by recycling. Each building contains blue bins, one for boxboard and mixed paper and one for newspapers, magazines, and catalogs. In addition, the park recycles corrugated cardboard, which should be broken down and placed in the bin on the loading dock at the Headquarters building or in the dumpster in the “gym”. (Note: Some buildings have different procedures for corrugated cardboard. Check with your supervisor for details.) If you have any suggestions for improving recycling in the park, let your supervisor know.

Government Housing If you will be living in government housing your supervisor will do a housing check-in soon after your arrival at which time you must sign a quarters agreement.

Furnishings Each quarters has sufficient beds, dressers, chairs, lamps, and appliances (stove and refrigerator) to accommodate all assigned occupants. Under no circumstances is furniture or other equipment to be removed from quarters without the authorization of the Building and Utility Foreman. It is your duty as an occupant to make your supervisor aware of any damage to quarters before you move in. This information should be documented on the check-in sheet to avoid confusion at the end of the season. It is to your benefit to make a copy of your check-in sheet for documentation and to have it with you at check-out should questions arise. Your supervisor will inspect your quarters with you when you terminate at the end of your season.

Linens, cooking and eating utensils, clocks, radios, televisions, etc., are not provided. You must bring your own. If using public transportation to travel to the park, some kitchen supplies and linens are available.

Housing Policies Family Quarters: Because of limited housing units, family housing unfortunately is not available for Teacher Fellows.

Shared Quarters: In quarters that are shared by two or more unrelated employees, overnight guests are permitted for a maximum stay of three nights. Housemates must consent in advance. Pets are not permitted in shared quarters.

Each residence contains a three-ring binder that outlines housing rules, regulations, and cleaning requirements. Read this completely so that you know what is expected of you. If your quarters does not have a binder or if you just have questions about your housing unit, contact the Housing Officer at (207) 288-8715. Any major housing maintenance issues must be brought to the attention of the Building and Utility Foreman at (207) 288-8753 or the Maintenance Program Assistant at (207) 288-8751.

Thoroughly cleaning your housing unit prior to your departure is required. You must make arrangements with your supervisor to inspect your quarters before you leave. All occupants of a shared housing unit will be responsible for the costs of cleaning or repair, if required, when they vacate that unit.

If you leave your quarters in a less than clean condition, your last check will be held and you will be billed for the cost of having a cleaning company perform the work. Leaving an unclean housing unit may be cause to deny you park housing in the future.

Telephone lines may be hooked up at the tenant's expense. To have a telephone line connected, contact FairPoint Communications at (866) 984-2001. Prior to contacting FairPoint, you must have the physical address (not the mailing address) of the residence. There is only one area code (207) for the entire state of Maine.

Cable lines for television are not allowed in any living quarters. One or more local channels may be acquired with an antenna at various locations in the park. A small satellite dish set outside of the quarters on a tripod may be used as a feed running into your quarters. The wiring for these cannot run directly through the walls and nothing can be attached to the outside of the quarters or to the roof.

Quarters must be vacated upon termination of employment. Storage of personal property until the next season is not permitted.

Laundry Facilities Laundry facilities are available to all employees housed in government quarters. Some quarters (e.g., McFarland Hill and Harden Farm apartments) utilize shared facilities. For those who are not housed in government quarters, there are commercial laundromats in Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and Northeast Harbor.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program National Park Service policy, in line with federal law and government-wide policy, provides workplace protection from discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, or physical or mental disability. In addition, sexual harassment, which is also a form of sex discrimination, is prohibited in the workplace. Report any problems to your supervisor immediately—do not wait for the situation to get better or worse.

If you feel you have been discriminated against for any reason, contact an EEO counselor within 45 days of an event or an act. Acadia National Park's EEO counselor can be reached at (207) 288-8751. A complete list of EEO counselors is posted on the bulletin board in the kitchen in the Headquarters building.

Employee Conduct Teacher Fellows may have limited access to government property (computers, copy machines, telephones, equipment, etc.) for personal use. All personal usage of government property should be cleared through your supervisor beforehand.

While working for Acadia, you may hold another job as long as it does not prevent you from devoting your primary interests, talents, and energies to your Teacher Fellow position. Outside work may not be conducted on government time, nor may it involve the use of government funds, facilities, or equipment.

Remember, as a National Park Service Teacher Fellow you are in the public eye at all times while on duty (as well as off duty). Act accordingly. For more information about ethics, visit the Department of the Interior Ethics Office website at www.doi.gov/ethics.

The Area

Mount Desert Island The majority of Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island. While it is spelled “Desert,” the locals say “Dessert”. (The pronunciation is a carryover from the name given to the island by the early French explorers i.e. Isle des Monts- Déserts.) MDI, as it is commonly abbreviated in print and daily conversation, has a year-round population of about 10,000, which easily doubles in the summer. A map of Mount Desert Island is found at the end of this document in Appendix B.

Towns on MDI All of the land in Acadia National Park is located either in Hancock County or Knox County. Unlike other parts of the country, here only a few government functions are handled at the county level. In Maine, local government is organized by townships. There are four townships (also called towns) on MDI: Bar Harbor, Mount Desert, Southwest Harbor, and Tremont. Within these townships lie a number of villages. Each township supports an elementary school (see Schools), police and fire departments, and town offices where business is conducted. Each town is governed by a board of selectman, with a town manager to oversee administrative functions.

Bar Harbor is the most visited and populated town on Mount Desert Island, with an economy largely depend ent on tourism. It offers many restaurants, shops, and recreational activities. Bar Harbor also 10 supports a thriving biomedical research industry and is the home of the Jackson Laboratory and MDI Biological Labs. In addition to conducting research, the Jackson Laboratory also is one of the world’s largest suppliers of genetically-tracked laboratory mice.

The village of Northeast Harbor, approximately ten miles from Bar Harbor, has the most protected harbor on the island and caters to summer residents. It offers a busy marina and a quaint main street with restaurants and specialty shops.

On the western side (i.e. the “quiet side”) of the island are the towns of Southwest Harbor and Tremont, which have year-round economies based on construction, fishing, and boat building. They also offer many opportunities for lodging, dining, and shopping.

Off-island, the town of Trenton is just across the bridge that connects Mount Desert Island to the mainland. Ellsworth, the Hancock County seat, is another seven miles north, where you will find the closest chain stores and fast food establishments. Traffic between MDI and Ellsworth can be very heavy at certain times of day, especially during the summer.

An overview of each town in Hancock County is available online at www.maine.gov/local.

Schoodic The Schoodic District is the only major part of Acadia National Park found on the mainland, but it possesses the same type of jagged granite coast found on Mount Desert Island. Outlying islands do not protect the Schoodic Peninsula, so views of the surf are outstanding. The Schoodic Peninsula also offers excellent views of both Mount Desert Island and Egg Rock Light.

The Schoodic Peninsula is approximately a one-hour drive from park headquarters. Travel to Ellsworth and take U.S. Route 1 north to Route 186. The Schoodic District is almost 2,400 acres in size and contains a picnic area, one-way loop road, 2.5 miles of hiking trails, and unsurpassed coastal views. A new 96 site campground (tents and RVs) called Schoodic Woods is scheduled to open in September 2015 and will be run by the NPS. Schoodic Woods will also have a campground office/information desk, amphitheater, small maintenance building, 100 car day use parking lot, 7 miles of bicycle paths, and 4 miles of hiking trails.

In 2002, the NPS acquired a 100-acre tract on the Schoodic Peninsula that was formerly occupied by the U.S. Navy. The former navy base has been converted to the home of the Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, an NPS research learning center. The institute’s purpose is to promote the understanding and protection of park resources and advance related research at the regional, national, and international levels. Schoodic Institute integrates research with educational opportunities concerning the scientific and cultural aspects of Acadia National Park and the region.

Isle au Haut In 1943, heirs of an early summer community located on Isle au Haut generously donated portions of the island to Acadia National Park. Isle au Haut, French for “high island,” was given its name by the great French navigator Samuel Champlain during his explorations of the Maine coast in 1604. Following the American Revolution, farmers, fishermen, and boat builders began coming to the island in ever-increasing numbers. Even today, fishing and lobstering help support a small, year-round community on Isle au Haut. Access to the island is by private boat or by commercial service out of Stonington, Maine.

More than 2,700 acres of land on Isle au Haut are administered as part of Acadia National Park, with 18 miles of hiking trails following rocky shorelines or meandering through wooded uplands. See Camping for information on the Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut.

Saint Croix Island International Historic Site Saint Croix Island International Historic Site (IHS), the only international historic site in the NPS, is also managed by the Superintendent of Acadia and administratively supported by Acadia staff. It is located approximately two and a half hours from Acadia on U.S. Route 1 in Calais, Maine. The site has two permanent, subject-to-furlough employees: a site manager who serves as the superintendent’s representative and a maintenance employee.

It was authorized by Congress in 1949 and dedicated a National Monument in 1968. In 1984, it was re- designated Saint Croix Island International Historic Site to acknowledge the island’s significance to Canada. It was established to commemorate the attempt by the French in 1604 to colonize the territory they called l’Acadie and to protect the location of one of the earliest European settlements in North America.

National Park Service facilities on the mainland include: a self-guiding trail featuring interpretive panels and six bronze statutes that convey messages about the French colonists and Native Americans who once used this site; a scale model of the 1604 French settlement; a seasonal visitor contact station with exhibits and historic replicas; outdoor restroom facilities; a primitive boat launch (4WD required); and picnic tables.

Parks Canada maintains a unit on the Canadian side which bears the same name. It’s located on Highway 127 between St. Stephen and St. Andrews, New Brunswick. Mainland facilities of both sites overlook the island, which is situated within the US boundary. Due to the fragile nature of the island’s natural and cultural resources, visits to the island itself are not encouraged. For more information about Saint Croix Island, visit www.nps.gov/sacr.

Getting Around While it is very handy to have your own vehicle, the Island Explorer bus system (www.exploreacadia.com) operates from June 23 to mid October (on a reduced schedule from Labor Day to Columbus Day) and provides free transportation to various points on MDI, Trenton, and Ellsworth. Staff and the public are encouraged to use this fare-free, propane-powered bus system. It is a green alternative and relieves the hassle of dealing with the heavy MDI traffic and crowded parking. There are several taxi services on the island as well, but these may be costly for everyday travel. If you own a bicycle, by all means bring it with you. It is not only good local transportation, but also a great way to explore 45 miles of scenic carriage roads in the park.

Weather Weather in Acadia is unpredictable. Because the park is located on the coast, it has a maritime climate strongly influenced by the ocean. Weather tends to be less extreme than inland areas of Maine. For example, when inland Maine is experiencing very warm temperatures, the park may be ten degrees cooler. Conversely, winters along the coast can be more moderate than inland Maine. Storms coming up the coast may begin as snow, then change to rain, to be followed by colder temperatures that cover everything with ice.

Overall, the seasons here are slower in arriving and tend to stay longer. Regardless of what season you plan to spend at Acadia, be sure to bring warm clothing and good rain gear. Also, make sure your vehicle is equipped with appropriate safety equipment for the wide range of weather that you might experience here.

Insects and Disease Springtime in Acadia has been known to bring its share of rain, and with it come several unwelcome pests— mosquitoes and black flies. Besides being annoying, mosquitoes can transmit West Nile Virus, so a good insect repellent—preferably one that contains 35 percent or less of DEET (in this case, more is not necessarily better)—is helpful. Although not generally a health threat, black flies breed in running water and are most prevalent during a rainy spring. They reach their peak between mid-May and late June, but their numbers and season vary from year to year. 12

Lyme disease is also present throughout this section of Maine. When walking through brush and on trails, take precautions, such as tucking your pants into your socks and using a tick repellent such as DEET. Be vigilant about checking yourself for the presence of ticks at the end of the day. Also, keep an eye out for symptoms, including a flat or raised red area near the site of the tick bite (sometimes in the shape of a bull’s- eye), fever, headache, lethargy, and body aches. Prompt treatment is important. You will be provided with Lyme Disease Prevention information when you check in for work at the park.

Community Services There are excellent community-based recreational facilities in the area, including the local Y listed below. They offer a variety of services such as organized sports, adult fitness, swimming pool, and more.

MDI YMCA 21 Park Street Bar Harbor (207) 288-3511 www.mdiymca.org

If you enjoy participating in road races and fun runs, the MDI-Ellsworth area is a wonderful place to be. Throughout the summer and early fall, the YMCAs and other groups offer races and runs which attract many participants.

Shopping Shopping in Bar Harbor and on MDI includes gift shops, antique shops, and novelty stores as well as bookstores, pharmacies, hardware and sporting goods stores, and grocery stores. Ellsworth has most of the amenities you would expect to find in a small city, including several large chains. For a complete selection of services, such as 24-hour grocery stores or a full-scale mall, you must travel to Bangor, which is 45 miles from Bar Harbor.

Dining There are a variety of locally owned and operated restaurants on Mount Desert Island. Many specialize in seafood, but a variety of cuisines are represented in the MDI-Ellsworth area. With the exception of Subway, there are no fast food chain restaurants on MDI. Many national fast food chains are represented in Ellsworth.

Theaters and Music Bar Harbor has two movie theaters, Reel Pizza Cinema and the Criterion. In Bangor, there are two multiplexes. There are numerous theaters offering live plays and musical performances in the MDI- Ellsworth area. Throughout the summer and fall, the MDI-Ellsworth area provides many opportunities to enjoy free live concerts and community band performances.

Recycling Maine is one of ten states to enact a “bottle bill,” which requires beverage distributors to encourage the return of containers through a deposit/refund system. Most beverage containers, including beer, wine, soft drink, water, and juice containers are covered by this bill. A deposit is charged at the time of purchase. Bottles and cans may be returned at automated machines in most local grocery stores, as well as at redemption centers in Bar Harbor and Ellsworth.

Newspapers, magazines, corrugated cardboard, colored and clear glass, and #2 plastic can be recycled at the transfer station off Ledgelawn Ave. in Bar Harbor.

Laundry Facilities Laundry facilities are available to all employees housed in government quarters. Some quarters (e.g. McFarland Hill apartments and Harden Farm apartments) utilize shared facilities. 13

Newspapers (Local) The following are good sources of information about the local area. Ellsworth American – weekly (Wed) (207) 667-2576 www.ellsworthamerican.com

Mount Desert Islander – weekly (Thurs) (207) 288-0556 www.mdislander.com

Bangor Daily News (207) 794-3056 www.bangordailynews.com

Public Libraries There is a public library in every town on MDI and in Ellsworth. Some of these may charge a nominal fee for a library card. The College of the Atlantic, located on the north side of Bar Harbor, allows park employees to borrow books. At park headquarters and the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, the small libraries focus on park history, natural and cultural resources, etc., and are open for use by park personnel only.

Zip Codes & Post Office Telephone Numbers ~On MDI~ Bar Harbor 04609 (207) 288-3122 Mount Desert 04660 (207) 244-5480 Northeast Harbor 04662 (207) 276-3221 Hulls Cove 04644 (207) 288-3842 Salisbury Cove 04672 (207) 288-4594 Seal Harbor 04675 (207) 276-5341 Southwest Harbor 04679 (207) 244-3456

~Other Locations~ Ellsworth 04605 (207) 667-5349 (includes Trenton and Lamoine) Winter Harbor 04693 (207) 963-7121

Medical Services Below are medical services available in the MDI-Ellsworth area. For a complete listing, please consult the Internet upon arrival.

Clinics Trenton Health Center (affiliate of MDI Hospital) Bar Harbor Road, Trenton (207) 667-5899 Cooper-Gilmore Health Center, Hancock Street Bar Harbor (207) 288-5024 Family Health Center, Hancock Street Bar Harbor (207) 288-5606 Lisa Stewart Women's Health Center 330 Main St., Bar Harbor (207) 288-8100 Community Health Center Community Ln., SW Harbor (207) 244-5630 Southwest Harbor Medical Center 45 Herrick Rd., SW Harbor (207) 244-5513 Northeast Harbor Clinic Kimball Rd., NE Harbor (207) 276-3331

Hospitals Mount Desert Island Hospital Wayman Lane, Bar Harbor (207) 288-5081 Maine Coast Memorial Hospital Union Street, Ellsworth (207) 664-5311 Eastern Maine Medical Center State Street, Bangor (207) 973-7000

If you will be residing on the Schoodic Peninsula, the closest medical facility is: Eleanor Widener Dixon Memorial Clinic 37 Clinic Rd, Gouldsboro (207) 963-4066

Worship Services Most religious denominations are represented in the area. Please search the Internet upon arrival for specific information. 14

Recreation

Fitness Room The park's fitness room, located in the south end of the administration building at park headquarters, is open to all employees and volunteers. Facilities include a treadmill, stair climber, universal gym, free weights, and weight bench. Please follow the usage rules posted in the room and keep the area clean. Check with the dispatch office in Protection for more information or to borrow a key to the fitness room.

Beaches There are three swimming beaches in Acadia National Park: Sand Beach, Echo Lake, and Lake Wood. Sand Beach is a saltwater beach located on the Park Loop Road near Ocean Drive. The water here is, at best, a chilly 55 degrees. Echo Lake, a freshwater lake, is located off Route 102 north of Southwest Harbor on the island’s western side. Lake Wood, also freshwater, is located about a mile inland from Hulls Cove on Crooked Road. Park lifeguards staff Sand Beach and Echo Lake the summer season. There are no lifeguards at Lake Wood.

Hiking/Biking There are over 120 miles of hiking trails in Acadia, with terrain ranging from rocky shorelines to mountains, marshes, and woodland paths. In addition to the hiking trails, you can walk or bike along more than 40 miles of carriage roads. Park bicycles can be borrowed free of charge to park employees. The bikes are stored inside the loading dock, next to the fitness room. They must be signed out at Dispatch in the ranger building. Bicycles can also be rented at several locations in Bar Harbor and in Southwest Harbor. Bicycles or other wheeled vehicles are not allowed on any hiking trails or on the privately owned sections of carriage roads.

Motorized vehicles, except for battery operated wheelchairs and park vehicles on official business, are not permitted on trails or carriage roads.

Camping The area offers a number of camping possibilities. In addition to the numerous private campgrounds, there are three NPS operated campgrounds: Blackwoods and Seawall on Mount Desert Island and Duck Harbor on Isle au Haut. A fourth, Schoodic Woods, will open in fall 2015.

Blackwoods Campground, located on State Route 3 in Otter Creek, is open year-round. From May 1 to October 31, reservations are accepted. Because this campground is extremely busy during July and August, reservations are strongly recommended.

Seawall Campground, located four miles south of Southwest Harbor on State Route 102A, is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is open from late May through September 30. This campground does not fill as often as Blackwoods does, but can be very busy in July and August.

Both campgrounds have sites available for groups of 15 people. Campground rangers staff both campgrounds from approximately 7 a.m. until midnight. Both campgrounds have amphitheaters where interpretive rangers provide campfire programs during the summer season (schedule varies). Campground hosts occupy trailer sites in each campground during much of the season.

Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut offers five campsites, available between May 15 and October 15. Each campsite has a lean-to shelter (three sides, a roof, and a floor) that will accommodate a small free- standing tent erected inside it. Tents are allowed only in these lean-to sites. These campsites may be reserved by mail or in person beginning April 1 and require a $25 special use fee. The maximum length of stay is three nights, except before June 15 and after September 15, when the maximum stay is extended to five nights.

Due to Acadia National Park's relatively small size—especially considering that visitation exceeds two million people per year—backcountry camping is not permitted anywhere in the park and campfires are allowed only in designated campsite and picnic area fire rings.

Fishing A State of Maine fishing license is required to fish in any of the state’s lakes, ponds, and waterways, including those within the boundaries of Acadia National Park. The NPS and the state share management of lakes in the park larger than 10 acres in size. As a result, these “great ponds” are stocked by the state. Licenses are available at local municipal offices or online at www.maine.gov/IFW. When you purchase your fishing license, be sure to obtain a copy of the current fishing regulations. A fishing license is not required to fish in saltwater.

Clam digging is another popular activity on the island. For regulations concerning clamming, locations to clam, and "red tide" warnings, check with any local chamber of commerce or town office.

Interpretive Ranger Programs The interpretive ranger staff present a variety of programs to inform the public about the natural and cultural history of Acadia. Programs include talks, guided walks and hikes, guided boat cruises, evening programs, bird walks, and more. Attending a program is a great way to learn about the park. A schedule of ranger-led programs is posted on the park’s official website at www.nps.gov/acad. Programs are free to park staff, with the exception of boat cruises narrated by the staff. Boat cruises are offered at no cost on a stand-by basis to any local resident with proof of employment.

Other Summer Activities There is an endless supply of entertainment available in the area throughout the summer months. Cultural events such as concerts, dances, plays, and lectures occur frequently. Whale watching, sea kayaking, and canoeing are also popular summer activities. For more local information on accommodations, dining, activities, and boat schedules, visit the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce website at www.barharborinfo.com and check the local newspapers for a weekly schedule of events.

Acadia National Park Employee Handbook - 2014